Posted in 1840s, Commissions, Reproduction Fabrics

August 1, 2022August 1, 2022

1840s Autumn Work Dress

1840s work dress

We made this lovely Young Lady’s Autumn inspired 1840s era work dress for Historic Exchange Place in Kingsport, Tennessee. We didn’t have quite enough fabric for a full dress so we got a little creative and added a complementary warm brown and mocha zig zag print to the hemline and cuffs. I think it worked out quite well, don’t you?

We added little decorative covered buttons to tie the contrasting hem and cuffs to the bodice. Using complementary prints is a great way to keep things interesting. So next time you find that perfect print but just don’t seem to have enough yardage, think about adding a second print! That’s what our ancestors did in the 19th century!

For more information about our Young Lady’s 1840s era Autumn work dress or any of our custom made historical fashions, visit our catalog or blog to find your next inspiration!

About Susan

My interest in historical costume began at a very early age. I knew by age 5 I wanted to be a designer. Over the years I have been fortunate enough to turn my passion into a full time business. You can find my costumes onstage in NYC, on the big screen, and in museums around the globe. View all posts by Susan

I am the lead designer and founder of Maggie May Clothing! Since childhood, I have been fascinated with folklife, history, and the “old ways of doing things.” When I was six years, my mother, Maggie May, made me my first historical costume (a Holly Hobby calico dress with matching sunbonnet)! As I grew older, I realized by donning the clothing of the past, I could obtain a deeper understanding of those who came before us. This fascination has followed me through life. I am now a formally trained historian and artist. I rely on my understanding of the past coupled with creative problem solving skills to design, drape, and create historical garments. When I am not working in my studio, I am tending my 12 acre hobby farm, playing dress up with my own children, or kayaking in the mountains.